Provo River Tubing and Floating — Benloch Ranch Community
Tubing in Park City or floating along the rivers is a wonderful way to experience the waterways and mountain views. Prepare yourself for a lazy jaunt down the river, chatting with friends and enjoying the wildlife on the shore, the forests, and the fields of wildflowers.
Provo River tubing is a summer activity, though using inner tubes on ski hills is also fun for the kids — and kids at heart — in winter. Park City, Utah tends to get as high as 79 degrees in the middle of July, but when temperatures dip into the 90s on the rare occasion, staying cool with a relaxing tubing adventure also helps you beat the heat.
Why Is the Provo River So Great for Tubing?
While there are sections of the Weber River that are popular for tubing, many locals decide to float the Provo River because in many cases there are fewer crowds and calmer water. In addition, the Provo allows for a lengthy and relaxing float of about two to three hours.
Since the water in the Provo River is dam released, it stays in a refreshing 50-degree range throughout even the hottest days, making this an ideal spot for tubing during a heatwave. The gentleness of the water is ideal for tubers of most skill levels, including beginners. Even children over eight can handle tubing the Provo when they share an inner tube and have adult supervision.
What Is the Top Location for Launching Your Tube and for Getting Out?
If you’re going tubing on the Provo River, the ideal route sees you drive US-189 to Deer Creek Road. The put-in is off a road, near a bridge. Near the put-in is a large parking lot for your car.
The most popular section for tubing takes you all the way to Vivian Park. The best place to get in the water is downstream from the bridge or above it. You can then float down the river, enjoying the views of private property and Mount Timpanogos.
Is There Anything to Be Aware Of?
In general, the Provo River is a relaxed ride and offers an activity with few risks. Aside from the usual precautions concerning any water activity, there are three minor things to be aware of, and they are all easily avoided:
Punctures. There are a few minor riffles and obstacles, such as rocks and branches. Stay attentive so you don’t float over any sharp areas and look out for spray-painted rocks, which are there to help you avoid punctures.
An old railway bridge. There is a wooden trestle about two-thirds of the way down the river, and the passage is narrow. Most people portage over the log fence by taking out before the bridge and putting back just after the bridge.
Private property. Both shores of the Provo River are private property. This is generally well-marked with signs. Respect these signs by remaining in the river.
As always, good water safety is important. You should only go tubing when you are physically able to swim, are sober, and have the swimming skills to be able to get to shore safely if your tube flips. Be prepared for changing weather and water conditions, as well.
Should You Rent or Own a Tube?
There are a few options for rentals in the Park City area. High Country Adventure in Provo has rentals of tubes, kayaks, and rafts for up to one week. They also offer Provo River tubing tours, from the Deer Creek area to Vivian Park and Frazier Park.
Destination Sports has an office in Park City and they offer tubing tours of the Provo River as well as tube rentals. Their tours include shuttle service and a tour guide for the whitewater section of the river while their rentals allow you to choose between popular brands AIRE and NRS. They also rent pumps and life jackets.
Utah Boat Rentals has a location on Main Street in Park City. They rent boat tubes as well as many water adventure gear options, from boats to jet skis to wakeskates and other options.
When deciding whether to rent or buy, consider how often you might want to go tubing. If you’re new to the adventure, consider taking a tour or renting to test it out. If you love tubing, owning your own gear helps you spend more time on the water and you can invest in a high-quality tube you’ll love.
What Other Equipment Should You Bring?
Of course, the basic piece of equipment you will need is a tube. A tube with a bottom will keep you most comfortable by reducing water exposure while a double tube can be ideal if you’re heading out on the water with children. In addition, you may want to bring:
Sunscreen and hat. Even on overcast days, spending one to two hours in the river can be enough to cause a sunburn, so be sure to bring sun protection.
Sunglasses. The glare of the river is something to consider on sunny days, and if you’re reclining in the inner tube, looking up, sunglasses protect your eyes.
Light shoes or river sandals. Bring something with good treads, so you can take out and put back easily without slipping.
Long sleeves. You can reduce chafing and scratches from the tube or any branches or rocks if you wear a long-sleeve t-shirt. Long sleeves also keep you warmer.
Water. Staying hydrated is important in any activity, and a water bottle is always a good idea.
Life vest. Even if you’re a good swimmer, a life vest offers an extra layer of safety and keeps you visible to anyone else using the water.
Paddle. You can paddle with your hands, but since the water stays cool, paddles are more comfortable and give you more control.
Booties and wetsuits. If you’re going tubing on the Provo early in the season (May and early June), wetsuits and booties keep you warmer and more comfortable, since the water is still quite chilly.
Before you go, check the weather forecast, too. Summer storms can roll in, especially in the second half of the season, and you don’t want to be caught in the water when one hits.
Why Is Benloch Ranch Ideally Situated for Those Who Like River Tubing?
If you want to float the Provo River, the Weber River, or enjoy boating, swimming, kayaking, or any water activity, Benloch Branch puts you close to many waterways, including mountain-fed rivers. The community is only about 20 minutes from the Provo River and 15 minutes from tube rentals in Park City, so you’re always a short drive away from your next adventure.
When you’re at home, Benloch Ranch floorplans let you enjoy the outdoors, with high-end amenities, generous deck areas, and a good flow between indoor and outdoor spaces. After a day on the water, you’ll appreciate your gourmet kitchen, your oversized windows with mountain views, and the quiet of the green space around you.
In addition, Benloch Ranch amenities are ideal for serious tubing enthusiasts. Benloch Ranch Concierge can help you book rentals or tours while the shuttle can get you to the river or anywhere else you want to go. The Benloch Ranch Shoppes provide you with all the gear you need, and plentiful storage helps you store your tube, life vests, and everything else close to home.
Add to that plenty of additional amenities, including over 20 miles of hiking and biking trails to keep you fit, and Benloch Ranch is the ideal spot for anyone who wants to live an active lifestyle just minutes from one of the most exciting ski destinations and cities in the country. Take a look at our floorplans and contact us today to find out more.